Meaning & Definition of word "Somersault"

Somersault

/ˈsʌmərsɔːlt/

noun:

  • 1. A movement in which a person rolls forward or backward, turning completely over so that the feet go over the head.
    • Example: The gymnast executed a perfect somersault during her routine.
  • 2. An act of turning over in the air, often associated with acrobatics or gymnastics.
    • Example: He did a somersault off the diving board and landed gracefully in the water.

verb:

  • 1. To perform a somersault.
    • Example: The children somersaulted across the grass, laughing with delight.
  • 2. To turn over, especially in an acrobatic manner.
    • Example: She somersaulted down the hill, enjoying the thrill of the roll.

Etymology

From the Middle French 'sombresaut', from 'sombre' (to leap) and 'saut' (jump).

Common Phrases and Expressions

do a somersault:

To perform a somersault, usually with ease.

somersault in one's grave:

To feel shocked or upset by something.

Related Words

flip:

To turn over quickly in the air.

vault:

To leap over or across something.

Slang Meanings of somersault

Meaning: To unexpectedly turn your life around.

Example Sentence: After that promotion, my life did a somersault!

Meaning: To confuse someone completely.

Example Sentence: He really somersaulted my brain with that story.